Five Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
bedside travel cot cribs resemble the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. They often have one side that can be put down for easy reach and some even have an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It also folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have a side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot uk Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabric options to complement your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside cot bed crib to facilitate co sleeper bedside cot-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be risky if your child falls out.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one that was handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great option for those who have little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.